The Body Magic Isn’t Magic After All

Dear reader, there are very few things that annoy me. Why? Because I feel like in my twenty-something years on this earth… I’ve seen everything.

That’s sarcasm, by the way. But back to the matter at hand.

There are very few things that annoy me. Why? Because most things don’t affect me, and the things that do… well, I’d rather spend my time finding a legitimate solution than just standing there being annoyed.

However.

I have a huge problem with false advertising. When people make claims about something with the underlying intention to sell the thing they’re lying about, it gets under my skin. If you present yourself as the authority about something, you’re asking someone to trust your knowledge. You’re then abusing the trust you JUST asked for with the goal of making money. I think that’s crap. I won’t lie.

Having said that… let me introduce you to Ardyss, and the Body Magic. Consider Ardyss and their product to be similar to Mary Kay… or any other company that relies on a gargantuan “team” of “salespeople” who have to go out and sell their products with the hope of making a profit. The “salespeople” buy from Ardyss at a fixed cost, then sell it to you for a higher cost. Because of this, the price you may find yourself paying for one of these things can be anywhere from $100 to $400 – yes, four hundred dollars.

The “Body Magic Sales Team” (I’m being terribly polite, here) will tell you everything that Ardyss has told them to say – you’ll drop 3 dress sizes (which basically means you’ll shave off about three inches) in ten minutes, firm up your abs, and lose weight from this system. Oh, yes. You can lose weight by squeezing into this tiny little guy… or gal. They apparently have the system for men, as well. (Of course they’re not marketing it like “Lose that beer belly, guys… stop feeling like the squishy fella at the table,” because that kind of marketing only works on women.)

First and foremost, the truth. I’m loathe to decry that it can’t reshape you. Why? Because I think back to waist training/corset training (also known as tightlacing), and I know how well that actually works. What is waist training? Take a look at the lovely young lady to the left. Her ribcage, skin, and hips have been reshapen due to constant and consistant wearing of a corset tied in this exact fashion each time. The ribs bend, the hips adjust, and the skin – as durable and smart as it is – shrinks to abide by the new figure to which it is attached.

A, the natural position of internal organs. B, when deformd by tight lacing. In this way the liver and the stomach have been forced downward, as seen in the cut.

Shoot, what does wikipedia have to say about tightlacing altogether?

Wearing a corset can also change the bustline, by raising the breasts upwards and shaping them, flattening the stomach, and improving posture. However, these effects are only temporary and will be lost on removing the corset. Indeed, excessive corset wearing has been claimed to weaken certain muscles, making it more difficult to maintain posture without a corset.

(Update: I received an e-mail request for clarity, so I’m happy to oblige. If you’re looking for more information on tightlacing other than wikipedia, feel free to check here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Wikipedia simplifies a lot of this into one source, and the information here doesn’t happen to be inaccurate, for once.)

So… that’s claim number one. Yeah, the body shaper might be tight enough to ‘reshape’ your body, but excessive use/relying on this thing on a regular basis/hoping it’s going to change your life is… well, not ideal.

Firming up your abs, eh? Let me introduce you – briefly – to the concept of waist binding. If your grandma is old school enough, she’ll tell you that her generation managed to keep their figures mommypooch-free by bandaging their waists for a couple of weeks after giving birth. I cannot tell you from my own experiences, but I have seen this work with my own two eyes. It simply aids the skin in finding it’s place again.. y’know, since the 30lb mound it once had to accommodate is now gone.

What it does NOT do… is make a mound of fat disappear. Using a Body Magic for this purpose does NOTHING except shift mass into a place it originally was not. Think about it – if fat was supposed to be shoved deeper into your body, then guess what? Your body would put it there. It’s stored on the outermost parts of your frame for a reason. Squeezing into a body magic and hoping it’s going to help permanently hide whatever flaws your body may have is… not ideal.

Now, I was also advised that the Body Magic could also aid me in my weight loss endeavors. Oh… really? How so?

“It’s so uncomfortable and tight, that it prevents you from overeating or stuffing yourself.”

So, wait. You mean to tell me that I don’t have to stop eating my favorite fatty foods, because the Body Magic will force me to eat it in moderation? So… forget the fact that those foods are unhealthy and lack proper nutrition for the body (empty calories like soft drinks vs. nutrition-rich ones like sweet potatoes.) Forget that those are the same foods that got you in a physically unfit figure in the first place. Forget the fact that those foods aren’t going to help you maintain that figure should you magically obtain it. You don’t want to sacrifice… and this magic garment (it’s no surprise that the thing is called Body Magic, trust me) can give you all you want and you don’t have to sacrifice at all. It doesn’t work like that.

Those women who simply want proper undergarments? I’m not talking about you. In fact, I have a very nice, VERY reliable body shaper from Fredericks of Hollywood. Know how much I paid for it? It certainly wasn’t $400… more like $40.(And no – no one is paying me to say that.)

This is for those women who are confused and concerned and are leaning toward spending their hard earned recession-era money on a magic garment that is being peddled as if it can solve all that ails us… only to be sorely disappointed. It’s simply not worth it.

In conclusion, should you choose to ball out of control and purchase a Body Magic, do it because you appreciate the temporary – and occasional – effect it has on your body. But if you find yourself throwing it on every single day, perhaps a lifestyle change is in order. Perhaps a switch-up in your workout routine is in order. Perhaps some dietary restrictions are in order. Just don’t expect the changes to come with a little abracadabra. It simply doesn’t work that way.

Be happy, be healthy!

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The proud leader of the #bgg2wlarmy, Erika Nicole Kendall writes health, fitness, nutrition, body image and beauty, and more here at #bgg2wl. After losing over 150lbs, Kendall became a personal trainer certified in fitness nutrition, women's fitness, and weight loss from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. She now lives in New York with her family, and is working on her 4th, 5th and 6th certificates.

I like your story and I like that you did not let those Ardyss people take over your comment section. It seams a lot of “multi level marketing” companies bully anyone who complains on the internet. Unless you are a 12 year old with a cookie, I will never buy anything from a company that does not have a storefront somewhere.

I was looking for a site that will tell me about girdles (bought a 10 when I should’ve bought a 14, but u know some designers don’t go that far and they only make 3-12’s lol) and stumbles upon ur page. Very interesting as I jagged off my $ on one of those things…I was merely supporting a friend…$160 lighter that thing was so uncomfortable I couldn’t wear it. I couldn’t eat cuz food would get lodged in my esophagus (right n the pit of my stomach) I felt horrible till I removed it and food could continue to be digested. I bought the one that goes alllll the way up to the boobs and I was sweating and just miserable. I gave it away….smh!! Money wasted

Anita, I don’t think Erika is mad that people have different views. But I can agree that if it were MY site and someone came swinging (cursing, yelling in caps and being nasty/disrepectful) I would delete it too!

Erika, I love what you are doing here. Your blog has been an inspiration as I am on a journey to become healthy. I agree with what you are saying, the body magic suit is only for shaping and appearances. How, it can make one scientifically and legitimately help someone shed the pounds without harming themselves is yet to be seen. I have used shapers to make things look better and smoother, however I don’t use them all the time because I want to work on looking shaped without them KWIM! Keep doing what you do mama!

The truth is that no one wants to hear that they have to put in the work to achieve desired results. Anything worth having is simply not easy. Sounds trite but its hella true. In order to be successful at anything requires a kind of spiritual shift where you can appreciate the body you have as opposed to trying to “mock” someone who is perceived to have a 10.

At the end of the day its about health. Trust I know when I’m going too hard on the potato chips, and snacks over games of football with the hubby. I know when to jump on that treadmill and burn baby burn in a heartbeat.

I’m all for intellectual conversation – not women cursing on my site, calling me ignorant and idiot, calling me everything but a woman of color.

Having said that, what is “ignorant” or “idiotic” about presenting information that can be VERIFIED BY SCIENTIFIC METHOD? As I already DID?

When someone can present me with properly vetted scientific information validating the claims made ON THE ARDYSS WEBSITE, IN THE ARDYSS MEETINGS, or MADE BY ARDYSS SALESPERSONS, I will GLADLY post it up for review.

Claiming you are someone’s “health care professional” on my site, telling me about your “friend,” and acting as if my AGE has anything to do with the fact that I am an educated woman who can read and review information in front of me logically… these things will get you nowhere. Especially since many of you are questioning MY intelligence with comments laden with flawed grammar, ridiculous spelling, and logic that INFANTS could defeat.

To save you the time… your sales pitches will not be approved. Your curse words will not be approved. Your petty and pathetic attempts to tell me about MY life will not be approved. If you’ve got objective opposing facts? Then by all means, share. Let’s discuss. But I’ll be a fool if I let you insult ME and MY intelligence on MY site. It ain’t happenin’.

I suggest you chalk this one up, ladies. After the rudeness that I’ve endured, I’m no longer in the mood to be polite to those of you trying to insult me to protect your cash flow.

I really appreciate your views on the ardyss product,which i was about to contact a sales rep in my area, however upon stumbling upon your blog which was pretty informative, now has doing a little more research before i spend my money on the body magic….

I want to say THANK YOU for posting this information! I have been one of those who has NOT – from the beginning – been a fan of Ardyss & Body Magic…it IS indeed false advertising and more importantly, does not cause weight loss…as a matter of fact, in some instances, it is a detriment to one’s health.

Everyone who knows me knows how I feel and thus, do not even come ‘at’ me to discuss these garments.

Erika,
We had a discourse on Twitter about this post already, but I’m doing due-diligence and commenting here to say I SUPPORT this post completely. No one is saying that Body Magic salespeople don’t have a right to support themselves, their families, or the economy by selling this product. The criticism comes from the false advertising, manipulation, and zealous salesmanship some Body Magic retailers have exhibited. If you don’t like this criticism, please prove it wrong. The product is a good support garment, but sell it as such – not a quick-fix, weight-loss scheme.
Thanks again, Erika. Love your blog, it’s inspiring to get off my duff and finally work this weight off. (I’m extra-chubberly and not happy about it.) Godspeed to you.

A few of my friends have the body magic, and I always looked at it as a spanx like garment! Except spanx doesn’t hold the back fat in and lift your boobs & butt…I think women like garments that hide the “cottage cheese” butt & thigh look. Certain clothes reguire an undergarment that forgives, and since women no longer where slips(I went to Catholic School in the 80s) I think the body magic is a good modern day slip! I wore a girdle my senior year of HS to help w/ my posture & waistline, and because I also did situps & crunches, I didn’t need a corset for prom! I can’t knock the body magic because I know it can work temporarily or semi-permanently! But girdles work as well(although cheaper): my 85 year old aunt has been wearing a girdle daily since the age of 16. Body Magic seems to be the modern day girdle!

You know what, Tiffany, I agree with you – girdles have their place in our lives just like any other proper undergarment. I agree with that wholeheartedly. I even gave the product it’s just due when it comes to being a proper foundational garment, even though there are much less expensive and much better solutions out there. I can think of lots of uses for a powerful back brace – some of us use it when we lift weights, as additional support. I simply find it foolish to sell it to women based on the premise that it’s some weight loss solution.

Weight loss that isn’t based on successful lifestyle changes – changes that come from actual self-education – has something like an 85% chance of failing. Most people that DO lose weight gain it back because their weight loss wasn’t based on a lifestyle change – it was based on some “miracle” product, you know? Women need lifetime solutions that they can manage the rest of their lives – if they lose their jobs, tear the garment… then what? They’re used to relying on something else to propel them to better living and better health. It’s not a philosophy I promote, nor is it something I’d throw myself behind to support.

all of you confused women who are commenting on this post with ignorance and insults are just mad you spent hundreds of dollars to sip the koolaid. you’re desperate for a quick fix for your body issues. the idea that you were so gullible that that you bought into something that will, over the long run, actually do you damage must drive you nuts. especially when the truth is coming from a woman who lost 100 pounds and shaped her body the REAL and LEGIT way – diet and exercise.

I went to a big Ardyss showcase this summer at the Sheraton. The model definitely drop some sizes, kinda made me a believer. I couldn’t get with spending that much money on a girdle though. But, I figured I could slang the body magic and make some big $$$. I’m not the salesperson type so I didn’t even complete an application. However, I only regarded body magic as shapewear, not a weight loss aid. The weight most women want to lose is fat. It doesn’t make sense how redistributing the placement of fat could result in fat loss. Fat must be burned, that stored energy must be used and putting something on your body isn’t necessarily gonna change what’s in your body. With that said, nothing is wrong with controlling your jiggly jelly, but it can be done for far cheaper. I can’t even handle a girdle everyday. I’d feel real silly watching my $200 sit up in the panty drawer. I would like to see more information about the nutritional supplements Ardyss offers though.

I have two Body Magics. Didn’t pay anywhere near $100 for either of them. I actually did lose weight after I purchased my first one, which is why I ended up with a second (smaller) one. I don’t necessarily attribute the weight loss to the actual Body Magic implement, but more to the fact that I liked how I looked in the Body Magic and wanted to look that way without it. The main reason I like it, though, is that it supports my posture. Being a large breasted woman, there can tend to be strain on my lower back. When I started wearing the thing, my posture remained correct and I suffered less lower back fatigue.

But no, it won’t magically make you lose weight any more than all those Acai Berry pills will. It will smooth you out and make you appear smaller while you wear it. Anybody looking for anything more will be sorely disappointed.

Jeezy, I TOTALLY dig that! What actually propelled me toward wanting to slim out my shape WAS my body shaper slip from Fredericks! I was like “Dang, can’t I look like this WITHOUT this thing?” and before I knew it, I was losing so much that the body shaper didn’t even fit anymore. I guess whatever propels you toward living a little better, huh?

Kels, you are absolutely right! I just fear that women don’t approach the product sensibly, and that’s all I want. Many of my sisters (and brothers) are heartbroken about their weight – not even necessarily their health – and preying upon them is unfair, period. I find that you catch more flies with honey.. and honey, in this case, is code language for honesty, lol.

thanks so much! Im 218.6 from 270lbs december 09 so im trying to get these last few off to hit my goal of 200…this shaper will help when I wear my bad goal dress I have! I have no clue what size to get but I’ll see if I can find a store. thanks again!

Directing you to the Frederick’s website to show other body shapers that 1) aren’t being promoted as weight loss tools and 2) are far less expensive than what these scam artists are pushing the body magic for and 3) doesn’t put a singly solitary penny in my pocket is in NO way similar to what I’m talking about in the blog post.

Critical thinking. Emphasis on thinking.

Tracy

December 4, 2009 at 8:19 PM

The Body Magic is some foolishness, to say the least. I went to YouTube and watched video or two just so I can get an idea of the product. Well, it has no choice but to make you look smaller. The “model(s)” on the video literally had to squeeze and propel themselves into the contraptions! Then, it looked as though there were about 20 hooks that you had to latch up! What the heck?! Through it all, the only thing that came to mind is what in the world would I do when I needed to use the restroom.

I just think this thing fosters a false sense of slimness. I can’t speak for all women, but I can be fairly certain that the majority of them are NOT working out or attempting to lose weight/tone their bodies. Why should they? They have a “magic” garment to make them “look” two to three sizes smaller. If I had no interest in actually changing my health and appearance, I’d probably buy one too and ditch the gym. YES, losing weight and toning your body is HARD WORK. (Not as hard as pulling that damn Body Magic up the thighs looks though!) You don’t have to be a magician to lose weight naturally. There is NO sexy way to take a Body Magic off when you are ready to get down to business (if you know what I mean). Neither are there enough words in the English language to explain to your man how you (looked like) a size 10 when you walked through the door, but was a solid 16 when you came out of the bathroom. Without using “magic,” at least someone knows what they are get. And there is nothing like the little ego boost you get when you know you’ve been working hard and someone notices little changes in your body… all without the help of magic.

Body Magic makes women rely on them. If you “lose” two to three sizes when wearing it, do you have to buy new clothes in smaller sizes or does it make your present clothes fit better? Would these magicians dare be caught dead ever again without the garment? Do you only wear it on special occasions and with special outfits? Do people NOT see those 20 hooks and buckles under your clothes? So many questions… so little time…

I love this comment!I am just now doing research on this body shaper thing and I thought the same thing to myself. How in the world am I going to meet a man…date him all at a perceived size 16 when I am actually a size 22/24. He’ll be a little upset when I go to take my clothes off…to say the least. reading your review just saved me some serious money! Thank you!!

I so am with you on this topic. I was invited to one of these sale pitch and I COULD not go because I’m at a point in my life that I’m not looking for a 10 minute fix for something that took 20 years to make..
I know this is crazy but I don’t just want to look good in my clothes but I want to take off my clothing and enjoy what I SEE in the mirror. I refuse to spend money on something that doesn’t do what I need for it to do…losing the pounds, healthy heart..getting this blood pressure in check.

In years past, I have spent TOO much money trying to look good externally…I am now at a point in my life that I realize that true outer beauty begins internally..That’s menatlly, emotionally and PHYSICALLY (what I put inside this vessel.) So, that’s my focus.. Many of my friends have jumped on this “Body Image” bandwagon, but I can’t do that. Anything worth having is worth working hard for.

It’s time to stop looking for the quick fixes and DO what the ONLY sure way of losing and keep weight off..EXERCISING..and eating RIGHT!

This site is a blessing for me. I appreciate it. I have shared it with many of my friends. I am so inspired by your “real” stories and issues. I can soooo relate..

Erika,
You are my Shero! It’s so refreshing to dialogue with someone who keeps it 100% real. I agree with you on all fronts with regard to Body Magic and Ardyss. It’s false advertising. The company preys on women who usually have low self esteem and resort to quick fixes rather than lifestyle changes. In addition to promising weight loss, they also promise to make you wealthy if you jump on the Amway bandwagon and drink the kool-aid. Unfortunately, the product is more popular in the south. Distributors in California don’t get much love due to the strong culture of fitness. Continue to inspire me and others. You’re doing an outstanding job!

Hi Erika, I agree with the person who posted above and said you are her shero. No way these items work, usually when they are tested, it proves to be false advertising. Anyway, who would want to wear something that so constricted their body. Women fought to removed the corsets and girdles( the girdles I remember wearing). Can you imagine having something that tight on your body and thinking that it is good for you. Maybe a little thing like a Spanx or a “copy” from Target is enough for me about once a year for a dress that needs a little help. Making money on people’s weaknesses is an on-going problem.
Unfortunately, it is buyer beware, which can be difficult for some of us, when we are looking for the magic.

Smiling! I know some Ardyss toes are hurting! But we do have to use logic in buying into any product and the claims made about it. I own a Body Magic which I purchsed after surgery to help support the incision sites and ease the pain. It worked well. I continue to wear it on occasion to smooth, support and lift my figure when wearing certain kinds of dresses. It is a good supporting undergarment, that is it. I was a fluffy girl before, during and after wearing the Body Magic. I know lots of people are pulled in by the high pressure sales, false claims and the possibilty of being able to make big money. What puzzles me is how the sales people can justify pushing products that sell for 5 times their market value and truly don’t give the results they claim. The main ingredient in the cleanse is psyllium, the cheapest bulk fiber around. So why should I pay $30+ because it is from Ardyss? The Levive is a mixture of readily available juices with some possible health benefits, but $50 a bottle!!! Come on and no one can really articulate what this wonder juice actually does for your body, I have asked numerous times and all I get is “Oh you will feel it when it starts to work.” But what is it working on? I can FEEL a glass of red wine working within an few minutes and at least I know what health benefits (or not) I am getting from that. I could go on and on. We are so easily led to beleive that something outside ourselves is going to change us. Shame on Ardyss for taking advantage of people, even their own sales reps, in the end only a few at the top are really getting rich. Ardyss undergarments are great, just know what you are getting, be willing to spend some big bucks and don’t expect to look like anybody but a firmer version of yourself after you get them. True weight loss is not attained by the weak in spirit.

Yes lord, i bought a body magic and the drinks they make you buy with it. cost me 150 dollars. i wore it once and that was it. it took like half an hour just to get into it. when i tried to call the company and cancel my autoshipment they gave me the run around. it has been like four or five months and i still cant get it cancelled. they are a horrible company and their claims are false. i am glad i am not the only one who thinks so. thanks for this blog.

I view the body magic for what it is. It is a foundation garment as my mom used to say, or as we call them to day, a girdle. My only question would be have you tried it yourself? I have a problem with people giving an opinion on something they have not tried. And no I am not a distributor.

As I suspected, that would be a no. (Smile) My friend tried it on and was able to fit into a dress two sizes smaller. It is what it is. Also a local news program did a report to debunk the claims. (They had nothing to gain from giving a positive report). Well one lady tried on a 20 dress and with the shaper put on a size 16 (same dress). I’m just saying is it really wise to talk about a garment that you have not tried? The answer would be no. (Smile)

Actually, I didn’t even address your question… much like you didn’t address mine. In the actual article, I said the following:

This is for those women who are confused and concerned and are leaning toward spending their hard earned recession-era money on a magic garment that is being peddled as if it can solve all that ails us… only to be sorely disappointed. It’s simply not worth it.

In conclusion, should you choose to ball out of control and purchase a Body Magic, do it because you appreciate the temporary – and occasional – effect it has on your body.

You, my dear, are looking for an argument. You won’t find one here. You didn’t read my post, did you? I suppose the answer would be no. (smile)

I just wanted to say that I agree with what you have stated about body magic. I went to a showing purchased the garment and I am out of $106.00. I actually purchased the corsette vedette,I believed the hype about it. Even as I sat there saying at some point you have to take that off. Needless to say I began wearing the garment and found myself visiting my doctor. I have diverticulitis and with the tightness of the garment pressing on my stomach and intestines it caused me to have a sever flare up. Not making it up, it pushed my internal organs together and I am now paying the price. Luckily I have a wonderful doctor. I think that anyone who is considering buying the body magic should ask plenty of questions. And if they have a kidney condition, ibs, celiac disease, diverticulitis or any other lower abdominal condition they should check with their doctor before purchasing. This is a lesson learned and I will not purchase anything from Ardyss again.

No, you’re not only looking for an argument, you’re tucking your tail between your legs. The ONE part of my post where I would’ve needed to have tried a Body Magic in order to validate my comments was the part where I actually gave the product credit. One might, at that point, presume that I’ve tried the garment on. For some reason, you “missed” that.

“I have a problem with people giving an opinion on something they have not tried”

that’s asinine. there’s plenty of room to wage an opinion on a myriad of topics without “trying it” first. that’s where facts, science and common sense come in. sniffing cocaine, jumping off a bridge, eating red velvet cupcakes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, having unprotected sex – all things I don’t personally need to try in order to take a valid and well informed stance on.

I get notifications on this post and it always tickles me how many ardyss stans try to attack it without reading it first. it’s like yall are an effing cult. it’s a girdle – that’s it. cool. I actually wear corsets myself. but I don’t fool myself into thinking the more I wear them the more weight I’ll lose or that it’ll fix my posture or firm my abs or “change [my] life” (word?!). everyone wants a quick fix and it’s – once again – asinine. it actually makes my sad how many women are spending hundreds of dollars on these products because they think they’ll do all they promised. if these body shapers were touted as a girdle and nothing more this post wouldn’t even exist. but they’re being advertised as a weight loss fix and that’s not right.

Huny, you have just used my favorite word perfectly to describe many of the comments I’ve read here: ASININE. I believe that Erika has provided a responsible, well- written article on the subject, and those with a clear bias are responding with a lot of arguments that don’t make sense and unnecessarily high levels of emotion.

If you don’t agree with the article, wear your garment and enjoy being uncomfortable. I personally REFUSE to trade one kind of restriction (an extra 100+ pounds) for another (girdles/corsets of any kind). I’m a singer and I need to breathe. As I lose weight (the right way), I want my body to move freely and naturally through an entire range of motion, as it was meant to.

I heard of Ardyss and this body magic shaper thing for the first time a couple of weeks ago at a Weight Watchers meeting… I listened to the saleswoman’s pitch (also a WW member) which focused a lot on how it reshapes your body and all I could think is 1- spanx keeps me looking smooth and doesn’t cost as much and 2- weren’t we all paying for Weight Watchers and (supposedly) following the program to reshape our bodies naturally? If it turns out that I don’t have an “hourglass” shape – then what’s so wrong with the way I’m naturally made?

Anyway, I haven’t tried it but I’m someone with an opinion on things like this – and I totally feel you and respect the fact that you posted this (wish I found it earlier). A quick fix is never the answer to a problem that has taken time to develop. Haste makes waste, as the say.

WOW!!! Erika, I actually LOVE your story and it has been very inspirational!!! I dont however agree with the negative dialogue. I always wonder why we as WOMEN OF COLOR find it hard to agree to disagree and not judge one another? We get enough of that from others. Your site is very informative. I guess my only question would be why allow comments that are negative and then respond to them in a seemingly positve yet negative way? (MY OPINION) I say keep up the good work and not allow others to take you out of character. That is if your intent is to help others. Now if its just to say I have the facts and you dont then by all means, carry on!!!!

I allow negative comments because I think they deserve to be heard just as much as the positive ones.

My character, quite honestly, is to stop foolishness in its tracks. It’s one of the primary goals of this site. I take it seriously, and I have a sharp tongue, lol. I don’t apologize for that – it is my character, and I believe my straightforwardness and honesty is why people frequent this site.

You’d honestly be surprised by how many comments this particular post receives/has received, how many names I’ve been called and how many comments actually get deleted. The ones I’ve chosen to let through, I’ve done so for a very specific reason. I’m sure you’ve noticed you won’t find this kind of hostile tone anywhere else on the site, right? 😉

Trust me.. I’m on my job. I’ve also chosen to leave this one dressed in its dirt for a particular reason. Thank you for noticing, though.

I wish people would read before they comment. You used YOUR website as a means to provide YOUR followers additional information on a popular product that is COSTLY and supposed to add to a healthier way of living. Yes you were quite blunt with your post but you did NOT tell people not to spend their money with Ardyss. You advised them to be mindful (my words not yours) of why they are buying the garment and provided them with information they might want to consider before purchasing…as well as less expensive alternatives (which is why I really believe they are angry). It seems to me as if maybe the Ardyss representatives may just be in it for the money, which is a shame since they (Ardyss) pride themselves on being geared towards health and wellness. I don’t believe the company would like being associated with those who embarrass their brand further by being obnoxious, ignorant and rude. After all, profit or no profit no one wants to be represented by ignorance.

BTW I am a former Ardyss distributor and I do believe in some of their products (still costly) so I am not bashing Ardyss.

Wow! I knew there was a reason why I couldn’t bring myself to buy the Body Magic. Thanks for this info, I would have never known that it only redistributes fat and displaces your organs. I don’t need ANY health problems and I thank GOD I saw this article. Wow! This is nothing but GOD. Actually, I like Spanx. It smooths me out and gives me the look I want under my clothes as a temporary help as I make my lifestyle change OF WORKING OUT AND CHANGING MY EATING HABITS. hint hint

Erika, I love your observation and research… not to mention, the way you FILTER and respond to the disrespectful comments (brilliant!)

I’m an owner of the Body Magic. And while I love the silhouette I get while wearing it, I have many, MANY issues…

1. It’s gawd-awful UNCOMFORTABLE! So much so that I only wear it when I’m only going to need it for 2 – 3 hours, that’s it. I made the mistake of wearing it to work once… needless to say, I couldn’t make it through the 8 hour day before I was in the ladies room peelin it off me.

2. I can’t STAND the whole pyramid marketing scheme that comes along with the territory. The whole “You can purchase it for $___________, however, if you join now and become a distributor, you can get it for $_____________.” Everytime I come across a distributor, they’re pushing the BUSINESS more than they are, the PRODUCT. It’s extremely irritating. In order to bypass all of this (and because I’m also a notorious bargain shopper), purchased mine from ebay.

3. Every ad I see/hear about the Body Magic claims you can lose up to three inches/dress sizes while wearing… I’ve yet to lose any inches or drop any sizes. In fact, those I’ve SEEN wearing a Body Magic haven’t lost any inches/dress sizes either. All this garment does for me (and for the others I’ve seen), is “tuck” and “smooth.” The clothes that once fit tight, STILL fits tight… I just no-longer have a LUMPY silhouette when I wear them.

I agree with the comments “Get Togetha” and “Huny” made… It’s just a damn girdle! A well-constructed, full coverage girdle. Because people want instant gratification, with no work or effort involved, companies of all genres FEED on the laziness and naive-ness of the millions… billions of people willing to shell-out countless amounts of dollars to fix their “problem.”

onto this whole debate. your post made me want one. I have some cheap azz girdles that always bunch up and just do an all around terrible job and i saw where someone says it does it even better than spanx, which i was planning to buy

but after seeing the stans…i’ll pass, i prefer a company that at least respects consumers whether potential or ex…

plus i saw someone else say how uncomfortable it is and how difficult it is to get into and so yeh…back to spanx…

WOW….First let me be the first to say that I do need to lose some fat. After 15 yrs, of marriage, two kids, & a husband who cooks like his mother, it is starting to weight on me (pun intended). I came across this Body Magic & was sucked in but FINALLY came to my senses that a lot of women are not paying that much for something they can get a whole lot less! LIek I did @ Macy’s that did exactly what I need it to do…….slim me down & suck me in.

I admit, I was SUCKED IN. I have since repented for the transgression of my ways for the sake of losing fat when I just should have exercised more, eat less, & drink more water. In the end, that squeezed up & out fat will still be there, just in another place where it shouldn’t.

As far as the Ardyss business is concerned, the only way you really make the cash is brinign in a lot of people at the $300 entry level. DEFINATELY A MLM to the extreme. At least Mary Kay sells what ppl need & is disposable everyday!

I SO TOTALLY LOVE THIS SITE & will be reading it daily while at work since Facbebook is blocked!

I didn’t take the time to read all of the comments, but I purchased the body magic garment, and I wished that I would’ve done a little more research into it before buying it. “THEY” stated that you would lose 3 dress sized instantly, well, that’s not true. I tried to put on something smaller, and it didn’t fit, in fact, I have trouble trying to button up the jeans that I can fit which are a size 16. I think the body magic was designed to people with a little belly fat that they want to have tightened up for personal appearances and that’s it. Just my personal opinion on the matter from a very dissatisfied customer of the garment.

I came across your site while surfing for information about Ardyss International. I recently joined the company and also have a garment. It’s not the Body Magic but it is a reshaper. I felt somewhat uncomfortable after reading some of the post because I feel exactly the same way you do. I consider myself to be an honest person and while I like the way I look in the garment it makes me feel a bit uncomfortable when I hear some of the distributors say that the garments cause you to instantly drop 2 to 3 sizes because that is not true. They temporarily reshape you. Now, there are some groups in the company that are passionate about promoting wellness but for the most part I think there are people in the company that are all about the money and at the end of the day you must be in tune with something much more powerful than money in order to have peace (which is what we’re all really seeking through various things including money).

I like what the garment is doing for me. It allows me to walk in and enjoy the illusion of a more desired figure. It motivates me to work toward the reality of the more desired figure.

I have some back problem and the garment does give me some relief but in my case if I lost some weight it would almost resolve the problem. I’m glad that you’re so passionate about curing a disease as opposed to just dealing with masking a symptom.

I’m sure you seem harsh to some people but sometimes the truth is ugly and it hurts.

I appreciate the honesty, here – it is a girdle. Not a weight loss tool, and it will NEVER be a weight loss tool. People who sell it as otherwise (or try to sell it as a “you don’t need to lose weight, you just need to buy one of these) deserve to lose every penny of their investment. Period.

I am harsh – extremely harsh – when it comes to people who try to defraud those of us who are in pursuit of better health. It’s hard enough out here to get accurate information from people who have our best interests at heart. Being swindled into thinking some fabric can save our lives is heartbreaking and ridiculous.

Thank you for your honesty (and not publicizing your link on my site.).

Wow! I’m certainly glad that I came across your blog while researching the Body Magic. I’ve only overheard conversations claiming how great this product is. Due to my lovely friend, Insomnia, I decided that I might just buy one. I then googled it and went to the website. First red flag for me is that there are no advertised prices; only a “request more information” which now in doubly means that I am going to have to screen my calls so that I don’t feel as my intelligence is being questioned as I hear the TRAINING VIDEO (found on YouTube) repeated verbatim to me in an excited yet scripted voice. Also, thanks for the link you posted. Great blog and very well written! Thanks!

I am approximately 90 lbs overweight. I am now making the strides to do what needs to be done in order to lose weight. I’ve learned that there are plenty of compression garments (rubberized girdles) that make the claim of losing weight. I’ve also tried the Vedette by Ardyss and I own one by a company called Squeem. After using these type of products over time, I had ended up with blisters and severe scarring for trying to look “smaller” (to the extent I almost fainted because the garment is so constricting.

I will admit I have had severe self esteem issues because of my weight. In saying all of this, We must learn to love the person that God created us to be. Weight is something that can be controlled and there is no quick fix to it. I still put on a girdle to firm my waist, but my goal is to lose the weight and the be happy with the body God gave me.

Similar to everything I’ve read on the site thus far, I love this post! Like Michelle, however, my comment has to do with your view of direct sales companies. While I certainly cannot speak about Ardyss or any company besides my own, I can tell you what I know from my personal experience….

Editor’s Note: All due respect, please don’t make this about something it’s not. Seriously.

This isn’t about direct sales companies with honest consultants that they train to actually learn the product they are selling. This is about companies that hire people who resort to unscrupulous and dishonest tactics to sell their product. Period. This isn’t even about Ardyss salespeople who HONESTLY push the body magic as what it is: a girdle. It’s about people who sign on and start selling “thin dreams” (with no concern of the overall health of the potential client) to women in order to make a profit. It’s downright disgusting, and I’m sure you can see that.

If you work for a DSC that is honest and that has you honestly and earnestly earning your dough, then kudos to you… but know that this really isn’t about you right now, lol.

I almost bought one to fit into a bridesmaid dress. I was getting pretty desperate. I’m glad I saved my money. I found a nice strapless longline bra (to smooth my tummy) for $12.99 (originally $42) and exchanged my too small bridesmaid dress for a bigger one.

This is my first time on this site and I plan to come back. I need to lose about 30-35 lbs and any motivation I can get is very appreciated. Keep doing what you’re doing!

Thank you for posting this, because just 2 days ago I purchased the body magic ( not the corsett but the one for thighs) and it came in the mail this morning. I was excited to put it on and even more after I put it on. But now thinking about it, I wasted my money (it was only 77 instead of 100+) on a girdle that will temporarily make me look thin.

I first heard about body magic when I was in a hair salon. This lady just walked in and basicly sold it to everyone. Now looking back at it she probably was just a good sales rep. just trying to make a buck.

I’m quickly sending it back in the mail today, and spending the 77 dollars on some sneakers and go burn my fat naturally. Thank you so much for opening my gullable eyes.

Wow this is interesting. I loved Jeezy’s comments. I don’t think the BM itself caused the weight loss, it was seeing my body (10years ago)! I actually am on my 3rd body magic (smaller sizes of course) and I wear it everyday. I did have to SQEEZE it during the intial fitting, but then I guess it started to conform to my natural curves…lol…anywhy, this was a great read. Much success to all of you in your weight loss journey to rebuilding your temples! Always remember that in anything you do, be sure that it’s not for vanity or self-gain, but to honor and respect the blessings of God.

I found your blog online and came across this entry about Ardyss’s Body Magic Garment. WOW! You really told it like it is and keep telling it like it is. You go girl! My Sister bought a body magic, wore it a few times and, well, it is now sitting in her closet! I believe she only “let’s it out” on special occasions.

I know for me personally, I wanted one, but then chose to go the “natural route” and lose my body fat the healthier way. I got off my butt, got active and started eating right! Plus, I had a little help from a friend. I just could not get with their “magically delicious” concept. I mean really, tricks are for kids! LOL

Keep up the great work with your blog, I will be coming back for more (I’m sure) enjoyable reading.

I agree with you Erika that this garment is perfect for occasional use, like if you have a movie premiere to attend or a big photo shoot where you have to look perfect. But I just couldn’t see wearing this on a date. Guys like to touch, and his hand on your girdled waist is going to instantly signal to him that you are a few sizes larger than you appear.

I admittedly bought 2 of these body magics, firstly to help my friend who was selling them, and then ended liking the way they made me look in my clothes. I truly loved the support and smoothness, as I was already a fan of girdles. I had already lost the weight, but was trying to tighten it up, seemed like a harmless way to do it. BUT….I am paying for it now. I ended up having internal problems, which I think that I can associate with wearing the body magic. I don’t want to make any false claims but the picture of what it does to your organs is proof enough. I should have stuck with my body shapers.

I am glad I found this site because I need some more encouragement, after the magic fiasco I have put back on some of the weight. I know how I did it before just going to get back to the basics, exercise and eating right.

I am the kind of person that like to read up on things before I buy them because being a single working parent I can not afford to spend my money on crazy stuff. Now I’ve had friends that told me about the wonders of Body Magic and how it helps you to loose weight and ohh it reshape your body but the thing that stands out in my mind is that you have to get someone to help you put it on the first time. ERRRKKK why do I need someone to help me put on my undergarments do you see how crazy that sound. Child PLEASE!!! So I did search the web for product reviews just to debuff your comments that just me but the people that was making these great postive comments about body magic is body magic distributor so when clicking on the next page for body magic reviews thats when it showed up about the real deal. 1) Its a girdle. 2) you have to buy products along with the body magic to keep the weight off. 3) Once you take the body magic off then the weight that you was hiding magically reappears. Not saying that body magic is not a great product but sometime we as women put our confidence in products instead of ourselves which mean get up work out and watch what you eat. Love ur site keep up the good work.

I must say that I do have a body magic. But I only wear it occasionally when I want things not to jiggle. I am more inclined to work on my overall health than to wear that all the time. I do know some women who wear it pretty much all the time and I asked them how can they stand it. It definitely is not some quick fix for weight control/loss. I didn’t even look at it that way when I purchased mine. It should stay on the occasional wear list rather than regular wear.

First things first: YASSSSSSSSS! *ahem* Erika, THANK YOU for this blog and all of your research, insights, & musings. I’m hooked. You are an inspiration, and I absolutely enjoy your writing style. The recipes look deelish! I may have to borrow from Julie & Julia and try them all one by one.

On to the topic. I first heard of Body Magic from a friend that shared my desire to lose weight. Being more of a skeptic, my BS antennae went up as soon as she said “and you can sell ’em, too…”

: /

She purchased one. I remember being out with her when she wore it and the poor girl, although smooth and a tad bit slimmer, couldn’t breathe or bend. Heh. Welp. I will continue to be a tortoise in this weight loss journey. Slow and steady. And able to bend and inhale simultaneously without fear of my eyes popping out.

I tried on a BodyMagic and it did make me look amazing, but it wasn’t very comfortable. It was, however, extremely inspiring to see what I could look like if I worked hard. I won’t buy a BodyMagic, but I’m working on a Magic Body!

I am soo glad I came across this post!! I was falling into the spell of wanting a quick fix and tempted to buy a body magic. It made the sales person look nice under her clothing but it was just too much effort to put on and use the ladies room. I could not wrap my head around the cost and effort it took to wear this thing. Plus I was worried it would hurt after eating, sitting etc because it looked TIGHT lol. My bust line is a 40 and the lady was trying to get me to purchase a 34 (0_0) where on earth would I put that. Needless to say I did not purchase one that day but left with the impression that I needed one.
Until I read your post. Thank You for being honest and shedding light on the truth.

Erika I would like to thank you for creating this site because people need to know the real facts about ardyss body magic. Some people like it because they can wear certain clothes with it, but at the end of the day when you take it off you’re still the same size. Its shapewear, its not going to help you lose weight. I found the body magic too tight, straps dug into my shoulders, its restricting to a point of not being able to eat because you know that will make it tighter. I actually ordered it a size bigger than the distributor told me I was on the phone. Body magic wasn’t worth the $120.00 price tag. You can get the same results with a spanx or saxybass shaper for a lot less money.

Everything I believe happens for a reason and that includes stumbling on your site! I’m a mum whose had 3 Children in 3 years (need I tell you what that has done to my body!) I’ve been totally sucked in by anything and everything that indicates that “you could lose 6lbs in 4 2wks” and wait for it….”body magic” is one of those ‘things’! Thanks a lot for opening a lot of eyes…mine inclusive!

Well said! I am always telling my mom and sister in law to lay off the girdles, b/c when you take them off you are still going to have the same issues as before. I used to live in mine, until i realized I was only fooling myself. (and making myself uncomfortable and HOT!!) I still have a ways to go, but I will at least have $$ in my pocket.

It’s just a girdle family. An expensive one. Use that money..buy some sneakers, healthier foods or start a gym membership. If I ever buy a body magic….it will be for a bang-em dress that I need to look smooth in….but even then so…the goal here is not to wear them.

The whole tick to this weight loss gimmick is: results now…not results after hard work. Folks are lazy..we live in a society where we want what we want now..no results. That’s why masters degree programs are a year instead of two..there are drive through jiffy car washes..instant brown rice(which ain’t all that bad heheheh) you name it comes in fast, faster and super fast.

Now I tried the ardyss supplements….instead of the girdle….that stuff is full of sugar….cran aloe is what they call it. Wamp.

Anyone reading this. Workout..eat right…buy a cheaper girdle if you need a little help during the meantime.

I haven’t even completed reading the article yet but I just have to comment before it leaves my mind. I cannot STAND watching “body slimming garment” commercials. Why? Because they ALWAYS use skinny women! How can we see how it really works? We can’t. Know why? Because it DOESN’T work! You know what? Just start trying to lose the weight and you won’t feel like you need the garment. I…I ha-….I HATE those commercials!

I know this story is two years old – but I was introduced to the Body Magic idea about two years ago when a co-worker told me about it. You know we are always looking for the newest diet craze around here. Well, anyway, it sounded good at the time, so I went to one of the sales parties or whatever. I saw the product, heard the price, heard what it actually does, and decided it was NOT for me. At least 3 of my co-workers purchased one. They wore them for maybe 2 weeks. That was 2 years ago. Indeed, it shaped them up nicely: brought the ‘girls’ at attention, took the waist in. Nice posture. But weight loss? Hardly. But we have all been around long enough to know that some companies will say whatever they need to say to make a buck. So, that sounds like what Ardyss did with the Body Magic. It has been two years later, and I don’t think the product is popular anymore. But what is popular and still well heard of: regular exercise and good diet! (laughs) Go figure…

I loved the article – I live in the Bahamas and everyone (plus-size women) were talking about ardyss. It is hot here, so I never bought into it – not excluding the fact that it is toooooooo expensive ($500 helll nooo). I went from 230 pds to 180 and I am still losing. Your website is such an encouragement and believe it or not you keep me on my toes. keep it coming……

I think what people fail to realize is that this is your blog and you write everything from your point of view in addition to proven facts. If they don’t agree then don’t agree. Some of the people on this site is sooooo sensitive! Can’t we act like adults and debate our opinions instead of trying to shove it down the throats of others. Thank you for keeping it classy Ericka. And if you can’t stand the heat stay out the kitchen (or off the blog for that matter)!

I think Bodyshapers have a place, and I use the High Waist Spanx. HOWEVER. Like someone else said I continues to work out and eat right and try to get this 60lbs off because I want to look better than I do in the spanx.

Now I “observed” a Body Magic showcase and 1. The presenter looked unnatural. Her but was too high on her back she just looked fake, and she was by no means a large woman. I guess she keep asking me to try it cause i’m fat or whatever but I was like no thanks lady. LOL.
A good friend of mine has it and she’s worn it twice because of how long it takes her to get into it. See when I go out I get loose sometimes I dont want to have trouble breathing.

P.S. Those Ardyss reps have a right to defend the brand they are promoting but they can do it elsewhere or tastefully. Getting mad means something you said was correct.

I know this is old but I just wanted to add my opinion. I was introduced to it by a “friend” several years ago. She went on and on about how it will make you look good in your clothes. She never really pushed it as a weight loss tool. I didn’t buy one from her because she charged too much, and didn’t want to measure you for it unless you promised to buy one from her! However, I did get one from Ebay. It does shape you very nicely!! I even have some shape to my flat butt when I wear it, lol However, it is VERY uncomfortable!!! I can only wear it for a few short hours and I better be standing because when you go to sit down its a horrible constricted feeling! Don’t even think about eating anything while wearing it! *whew* I’m mad at the fact that Ardyss sales pitch claims that the BM is comfortable! That is a complete and total LIE!!

I wear spanx as well. While Spanx don’t firm you or shape you quite like the BM…you can at least wear it all day and enjoy a meal without feeling like you are about to pass out! lol

I know my friend that was selling it wore it for a while but eventually stopped and I never heard her speak about the BM again. I think the BM fad has run its course now, but if you decide to get one please know that it’s a girdle. Nothing more nothing less! Don’t expect to lose any weight. Buy it knowing that its an occassional thing and not something that should be worn everyday. Lastly, do not pay full price for it. Check Ebay!

As someone who had used bodyshapers before, they are a shaping tool and they should only be used with that purpose in mind. They will mold your body the way you want to, but it will not make you lose weight: they will “move down” all that belly fat to your hips and butt. Not bad, but certainly, not weight loss. I had used them as an aide to archive weigh loss, but not as the only item.

Hello this is the best blog EVER; I google body majic and ur BLOG came up im really happy i reviewed it. I was about to really spend my hard earn MONEY on this product. I will be at the GYM saturday at 9am THANK U SO MUCH

I used to sell Ardyss and ppl plz never buy the stupid garments or reshapers because its all a farce. Child i liked to stop breathing when i putit on They want you to lie and say syuff thats not true to get a sale . I will not mislead anyone to make a buck. What goes around comes around. To make things worse the lady who bought me into the buisness was a big bully and i almost whipped that a**. She would argue down anyone who didnt want to purchase or join Ardyss and it got to a point i said enough is enough and stopped. There is no money to be made and the only product that works is the Noni. Thats it. Plz dont beleive in this crap Ardyss trys to get you with. It is all a pyramid scheme and the BM doesnt work

HI! 😀 I stumbled upon your post while I was actually looking up the Ardyss Body Magic Shaper. I saw their video on youtube and was actually pretty impressed with the garment and how it smoothed out the models, sure it was because of how insanely tight it is and how it snaps together, but for that part I was impressed.

I never even knew they claimed to help women lose weight! XD the thought of that is absurd though. I really liked reading you review and opinions simply because you’re right. What you wrote was based on fact.

I have been a long time user of boned, waist training corsets myself. I think corsets are elegant and the fact they make my boobs look great and slim up my waist are an added bonus. However while they provide me with a temporary waist trimming of three to five inches, i know they are indeed temporary. Most women don’t seem to understand the reason extreme waist training corsets stopped their used was because they literally bent women out of shape and sometimes the damage was deadly. Yikes!

Not that I’m saying thats what the Body Magic does! XD Dear lord no. anyways back to the subject. As a weight loss method, the Magic Body doesn’t do anything, you are right, as a temporary undergarment used for sucking in your waist, it seems like ti gets the job done though.

aaaand last but not least your article was informative and interesting. I know I am just restating facts here, so sorry about that, but you’re totally awesome and I wanted to comment.

I’m my own proof..tried it myself as a customer and my dear I went from a size 28 to a size 24 and then became an excited advocate of the product… That’s my scientific proof.. So speak for yourself ..have you tried it?

Oh, please. LMAO A size 28 to a size 24? Come on. I’m seriously not paid enough to deal with this kind of silly.

Listen, y’all. I’m tired of entertaining people who insist on believing that a magic potion or some weird thing that makes you suck in every inch of your soul is THE KEY, ANY KEY, or CAN BE RESPONSIBLE for you losing weight. Seriously. Grow up. You’re on the Internet defending a company that educates people on how to individually and collectively profit off of your IGNORANCE. I’ve got four years of information here EDUCATING and UNDOING every stupid thing a company or “individual retailer” told you about their garbage ass product, but EYE am the one you want to insult?

Seriously. Grow the hell up. I’m not approving anymore petty ass, incendiary, ignorant comments from magic bean pushers. If you’re proud enough to go around talking about how you lost four inches in your stomach – which, I’m sorry to tell you, the average size 28 can accomplish by taking a shit – then keep it to yourself. Don’t plague me or my readership with your stupid. Damn.

Some of the women like the one you commented to above have actually had good experiences with this garment. Why do you discredit what they say?

Editor’s note: Because anatomy and physiology are not on their side, and “The Placebo Method” makes far more sense. I debunk here. I can’t discredit things that haven’t the faintest bit of credibility from the giddy up. If you tell me “Yeah, I spent $600 on this ridiculous contraption and worked out consistently and ate clean for 6 months and I lost 30lbs,” do you SERIOUSLY EXPECT ME, a TRAINER, to believe that the $600 you wasted is what made you lose weight? Come on. I’m unable. I just.. I can’t.

[…] but to be negative against people that it actually helped (and you SCIENTIFICALLY can not say it didn’t help these people cause you are not there to see their progress) just isn’t right. I am more than positive that you will remove my comment and that’s fine but I feel it should be said.

Editor’s note: Actually, I SCIENTIFICALLY can say it didn’t help them. If I cared enough to play this game, I’d find a good 500 someones with a body magic and I’d run my own experiment. When anatomy, physiology and kinesiology are looking at you and wondering where you got your logic from, and when the company itself cannot equip its employees with the research to respond to ‘detractors’ but can equip them with all the talking points about some creepy juice that’s no different from what you can buy in the grocery, it’s safe to say that any “success” experienced was a byproduct of the placebo method and not some mystical powers of a freaking glorified, overpriced corset.

You can say what you want – just make sure you read the rules of engagement before you do, and don’t get in your feelings when you get dinged for violating.

This post is four years old. There’s a bajillion comments, and you have no idea what I’ve had to filter out. You have no idea what I’ve been called, what’s been said to me, and what kind of crap I’ve taken from absolute idiots with no home training. I’m a kind, compassionate, gracious person… until I’m not, and I make no apologies for that. There’s over 1,400 posts on this blog of me showing who I am. If ONE post is enough to turn you people away or change their perception of me, then this really – and truly – isn’t the space for you, and I wish you well.

Lmbo!!!
I knew you was gonna get her!!! I’ve been reading these comments since I’ve got off work and I’ve come to realize that BM does allow you to drop 2-3 dress sizes, only when you have it on!! And that’s how they play with you, lol. Tom Joyner made a joke saying “can you believe the women in 2014 that still sell body magic?” I had a girdle once as a gift and I exercised with it on, and I have a cute little hourglass outline..but from these comments I advise no one to try it with the BM. I’m on the hunt for a girdle and was tempted to buy one today but couldn’t find the mycart icon on the Ardyss website..so I decided to
look up reviews instead before I called customer service, and came across this site!!! You play no games and I understand completely the message your trying to get women to understand though this post is years old, but it’s still very helpful..If it wasn’t for you posting that link for Fredericks’ I would’ve never thought to go in the store, and I pass it every time I’m in the mall!! You saved me probably 70% of what I would’ve paid. I guess I should pay you the difference huh, lol..Maybe you should apologize for giving bargain shoppers a hookup. Ha, yea. Chile these ppl ain’t hurting cuz u keeping it hundred, they just mad..you a grown woman and don’t need to apologize for it..
Thank you girl..I mean, lady!!!

He he he he…. I went to sleep reading this blog and have woke up reading it. Wash her mouth? Where is her foul language? If anything grab a dictionary and look up some of her words to better educate your selves. I appreciate Ericka and her opinions, this is her forum, if you can’t read and understand, please stop. If she hadn’t disciplined herself and done the work, then one could say shes shooting off. Take it from me someone who has tried the product and sold it, the lady is right. Shes not bashing the brand, shes pointing out some facts that need to be considered by all. Ardyss should reconsider their marketing, reps should reconsider their sells approach. Consumers need to know what they are putting in their bodies and on them and the benefits if there are any. I’d say shes looking out for people, and the healthiest way to loss weight is naturally through diet and exercise. I can tell by the way she articulates her words, her mouth is clean. I’m trying not to comment anymore, and leave the site, but my lifestyle won’t let me. I just love a realist and keeping it real. GO ERIKA!!!

I fell upon your website today, and while I enjoyed the article, I just felt a bit conflicted about continuing to read your site because of the responses to some comments. I did however decide to read a few more of your articles, but I almost didn’t.

You have some really good content on your site and I would hate to see someone miss out because they were turned off by the harshness of the comments on this post.

I am even a bit concerned to leave this comment. If you don’t want to post it, just don’t make a fool of me with an editors note.

I’m not in the business of “embarrassing” people who are respectful. I do, however, have a little fun with people who are insulting, disrespectful, blatantly disingenuous, petty, and – quite frankly – stupid. In over 1,200 posts, this one is the most egregious. Clearly, you can see why.

If someone chose to not continue to read my website because of how I defended myself against some pretty disgusting comments made about me, then I would not only support them in going elsewhere, I would strongly encourage it. I have no problem in owning my actions.

I LOVE the way you operate your site. I appreciate in you what other people call “harshness” when you and I know it’s just unvarnished honesty–a quality in short supply these days.

This is YOUR site and YOU put in the effort to keep it operating. Therefore, you have every right to filter and respond as you see fit. If people are offended and have an offensive opinion about what you report here, they should start their own site and blast away with their vulgarity and ill-conceived notions.

As for me, I can’t and don’t abide false advertising. I, too, stop foolishness in its tracks. And, like you, I’m labeled vituperative (well, that’s my word for what I’m called since most of the people who don’t like my opinions also don’t know “big” words).

Erika, you’re a breath of fresh air. I wish you’d run for office. You’d get my vote.

I’ve been on both sides of the table with Ardyss as a customer and as a distributor. I have to agree with Erika on this one that its just a great lot of false advertising. I never took offense to it though as there are so many weight loss magic pills and potions out there I guess I’m numb to it now. In my experience it is a good foundation garment but that’s it. I joined so I could get mine cheaper. I have quite a bit of loose skin too so it effectively tucks it in. But I know I could get the same effect in another less costly garment. I live in the Caribbean and the price is astronomical after they double the cost masking as shipping fees. Lately it seems that the quality of the construction is even poorer than before. To me, Ardyss is just another MLM company with an iffy so-so product that preys on peoples need for extra income. This is becoming a pet peeve for me!

Instead of getting into any arguments with these brainwashed folk and wasting my breath yet again, I would like to simply direct them to this article – if you don’t mind? You have covered everything I’ve tried to impart to them about this product!

It gave me diarrhea, but it did make me look smaller in size for about 15mins until i ripped it off and ran to the bathroom. It definitely didn’t help me lose weight. Once you take it off you’re back to the way you looked before.

I would never wear one of these things on a daily basis – I’m sure that would do real damage. I’m just wearing it so I can look a few sizes smaller than I really am at my 10 year reunion in November. I’m working out hardcore but don’t think I’m going to lose ALL the weight in that time unless I starve myself, so I’m compromising by losing half the weight and wearing one of these things so it looks like I’ve lost all of it, haha.

I remember the first time I went to a Ardyss “party” I remember thinking in my mind that it was a decent “girdle”. I had a hard time seeing this thing as a means to lose weight. I just saw it as a temporary fix to get into that fitted shirt or dress that I really want to wear on a special occasion or when im pms’ing and i have a little extra bloating going on. Anyway, at the party I made the mistake of referring to the body magic as a “girdle” and the distributors immediately jumped down my throat and chewed me out. Telling me that this is not a girdle!! Don’t ever call it a girdle!! .I thought I had committed a crime or something. Needless to say I did not purchase one that night but later on I did buy one off ebay for about $70 because I wanted to fit into a dress for a special occasion and I didnt have enough time to lose all the weight i needed to lose. While it does give you a little room in your clothes and straightens your back and lifts your breast it only does these things as long as you have it on. Once you take it off everything drops or spreads back out. I do not and I will never wear it every single day as it can become uncomfortable at times. Its a nice girdle and I wish that Ardyss would be honest and advertise it as just that….a girdle.

Wow!I know I’m late jumping on the bandwagon getting filled in on this “Ardyss”company, probably because I’ve always worked out and have managed to keep my wait down. I ran across your sight because I’m researching to see if selling the products is a good choice, and boy did I come to the right place!Lol, because I’m am getting more info than I expected! Wow!A lady told me she believes she got a stroke from wearg the BM, and her dr.can’t prove it but said that logically and even scientifically your organs shouldn’t be squeezed together and you skin not made to breath. Makes a ot of sense, she sd she knew 3 other people that had strokes. But I was still looking for what could be that window of opportnty financially and networking. Whew!Thank God for sistas who have not been watered down, speak their mind, and keep it real!
Just tunning into Adyss hope I’m not mistaken but it seems like or its my perception that there are “mostly”women of color drawn to this product? If my perception is off please correct me. I just moved to the Atlanta area and there are some sista’s promoting this product like we promote Churchs chicken. I mean they swear by it as if their life depends on it. Its good to see people wanting to stay healthy, but I never put all my eggs in one basket. I mean like Churchs chick, it might look and taste good but is it really good for us? We support the cause faithfully and own no stock in it,and at the end of the day we comin up short again. We(black peop)are some smart people but more of us drink the koolaid and believe the hype than we should. We are so willing to sell ourselves cheap and give our hard earned money for bs. We are busy tryn to look like everyone else and they busy tryn to look like us. Where do you think the curves,big butt,and small waist came from?Us. Is that hard to believe now. Where do u think the idea of the corsetts came from? Certain women wanted small waist larger hips and butt. DUUHH, Small waist big butt and breast didn’t jus start!It started in the oldest civilization tribes that ever were. Read, do some research. So some mexicans or whoever can come sell you what you’ve seen all your life,repackage it like its the newest thing that hit the market, put a different face on it have you envy it and buy it for more than its worth, instead of doing what your grandm or great grand did,Gods way-natural physical activity and natural food, herbs, meditation, and so on. Um just saying, Thank God the sista soldier that created this site, I cherish real leaders like her,…..

Hello. I just wanted to say that I have tried BM in the past. Used it for a while. It did help me lose inches, but I believe this was due to me sweating underneath the garment everytime that I wore it-which was literally all the time, because I slept in it as well. But I do have to tell you the cons as well as the pro. It was the priciest (dare I say girdle =-O) that I have ever purchased. It was very uncomfortable before my body stretched it out. It even caused scarring from the hooks and the friction. More recently, I was approached here in Atlanta initially to model the products. When I inquired more into the “opportunity” to be a model, it then switched to me actually becoming a distributor. I was quickly sent an email with an Ardyss presentation. All of a sudden I was told that I needed to have a conference call and before I know I was asked a ton of questions about my goals about becoming financially independent. I told them that I wasn’t interested and that it seemed as if it was a pyramid (another forbidden word) scheme. They said I was mistaken, even though it screamed pyramid! Then I was told that I needed to go to meetings and that they lost weight and blah blah blah. Now I get text messages every day throughout the day and I get that cult(ish) feeling that the other ladies that commented were saying. Bottom line, I would use the BM again to aid in burning off inches. I would get a bigger size to prevent further scarring. And I would NOT recommend joining as a distributor. All that they kept pushing was for me to bring people in. It’s a numbers game. And to the lady that previously commented, I DID try it so my opinion should now be valid,right? 😉 Thanks , Erika for keeping it real!

“I believe this was due to me sweating underneath the garment everytime that I wore it-which was literally all the time, because I slept in it as well.”

So, I’ve heard people say things like this before, and I want you to know that I actually have a post coming up about this. There’s a product out there that promotes this kind of thinking – a “wrap” of sorts – that claims that “sweating in this area underneath the wrap encourages belly fat reduction, and also aids the body in removing toxins from the blood stream.”

Not only is this biologically impossible, it’s also patently false; a University – for fear of misnaming the schools, I won’t say which one I THINK it is – recently had students who compared fat loss underneath a wrap-type garment to fat loss under a different kind of garment to fat loss under no garment at all, and it was actually found that, over time, the fat loss was the MOST successful under the body with NO garment because the wraps actually impede muscle development, with muscle being one of the MOST IMPORTANT parts of fat loss that happens and remains permanent.

I really appreciate your comment, I just want you to know that whatever inches you lost were because of all your hard work, baby! Not a silly garment.

Yes ma’am. Thanks for responding. And F.Y.I I’ve been a victim of the wrap thing also.. Smh But yes the most success that I have had with my body has been recently. Not dieting, but juicing, exercising, and cutting out the bad things.. Thank you so much for your info.

Hi Erika! I just found your site a few days ago. Honestly, I’m not even sure how I found it, but I’m glad I did! It’s become one of my new favs! I think this is an interesting topic since so many of us, at some point or another, have fallen victim to believing we had to achieve the 36-24-36 “perfect body,” “brick house” image in order to be sexy. Ha, not even! I am a huge GMA fan; I watch it every morning as I am dressing for work. One of their stories this morning was about what you’ve already stated in your post: that wearing shapewear can be a health risk. The story focused on the effects of wearing shapewear that is too tight or too small and how doing so can shift, resize, and damage internal organs. Specifically, they highlighted Spanx and how so many women swear by the Spanx brand. It’s funny because I was in Lane Bryant just this Sunday looking at Spanx and I really wanted to buy one, but didn’t want to pay such a high price. I left the store empty handed that day, but made plans to go back this week to make my purchase. Then, I found your site and now the GMA story. Wow! I’m so glad I left my $84 in my pocket!! Thank you for doing such an awesome job on your research and on bringing women of all shapes, sizes, and races valuable, proven facts we can all use. Continue your good work my sister! God bless you!

SCoulctions Erika,
My name is Lauren Green. I’m a 22 year old mother from the UK. After having my beautiful daughter Ellie, I put on alot of weight. Going from a size 10 to a size 18 upset me beyond compare. I often look back at my old photos and cry. I am unable to shift my weight. And I often feel sorry for my partner Dan, because I know I’m not the same girl he met. Before we had our daughter he desired me more. My curves had always been apparent. I had an hourglass figure. I have somewhat excepted my weight and size, but hoped I was able to find something that pulled in my body a bit so I would at least even for a moment resemble the girl I once was. For those special occasions with my partner, I just wanted to look nice. I happened to watch a programme on tv called ‘my baggy body’ and I saw a lady not much older than myself putting on a body magic suit. I was amazed at how her body looked and thought I would look at the videos and ratings of the product before I would buy one myself. And then I stumbled across your website. And In truth I am glad I did and also which I hadn’t. I love your honesty about the product and the science behind it. It makes sense. But it has left me doubtful that I would ever find a bodysuit and look nice when I go out. I know things like this are too good to be true. And I hate reading stories how “it changed my life” because it’s never usually the case. But thank you for allowing me to see what buying a body magic suit could of cost me and potentially could have done to my body.
All the best and sorry for rambling on
Xx

I am glad I stumbled across your article, I was researching the undergarment because I felt the need to train my waistline after giving birth twice. Reading the article helped me put things into perspective, I think I’ve wasted enough money on weight loss gimmicks. It’s time for a life style change. Keep up the good work.

What women need to understand is this thing is SHAPE WEAR so no matter what a sales person say use your brain and understand the facts within the product name SHAPE WEAR not WEAR ME AND LOSE WEIGHT it common sense and I remember when this thing started to hit the street so to speak everyone was ranting and raving about it yet I still see unhealthy people the same people that so wanted a body magic got it then complained me myself im pass the category out of shape but I know there is no quick fixes plastic surgery isnt even a quick fixes because it all can come back lets MOVE ABOVE the shape wear to get slim or the MAGIC PILLS to get smaller and FOCUS ON A LIFE STYLE CHANGE…..PS….love the blog Erika people are normally hurt by the truth that trump the only in their head facts so yes you should erase the ignorance AND THANKS!!

I’ve been fumbling around with the idea of purchasing a corset/waist trainer/body shaper/spanx for awhile now. After reading this blog today, now I’m not too sure. I’m on the fence and I only say that because, I’m not that gullible to believe that you can just put on a garment and have it do the work for you. The garment that I’m more interested in purchasing is more of a workout contraption. Me personally, being in the military, I work out just about everyday. I try to stay up with what I eat, stay healthy, watch my sugars, intake more water, eat more protein etc. I find myself building more muscle, however, I do want that coveted hour glass figure. So, I guess my question to you Erika would be for your opinion on the workout waist trainer. Considering your education in health, fitness, and nutrition I figured you could help me out. Along with diet and exercise while wearing such design, do you think that shape could be accomplished? Also, would it be too much to wear that in an extremely hot environment (overseas)? Thanks in advance girl..

This is very informative for me because I just purchased some of those “It Works” Body Wraps. Not to lose weight but to tighten my left flank. HATE IT!!! LOL . I have also nylon purchased a body shaper to sweat more when I work out to burn more fat around my mid-section. However, after seeing the picture that Erica posted of what it does to your insides I’m not using it anymore. I am 5’3 and weigh 128 lbs when I use to weight 160. I lost the weight by changing my eating habits & working out. I can admit I have tried it all diet pills, fat burners, sweat garments, detox this & that. You name it & I have tried it. I can honestly say that nothing worked long term. By changing my eating habits and working out I feel better, I have healthy muscles, I am toned & the weight stays off by doing it the right way to get long term results. Not using all this shit these folks are selling/marketing to us to get a quick fix because they know the pressure women are faced to look a certain way or be a certain size. JUST COMMIT TO IT & CHANGE YOUR EATING HABITS & WORK OUT. You don’t even have to go to a gym. There are several women that I follow on Instagram and Youtube that make home workout videos that you can do. I have sweated in my living room working out more than I have in the gym.
JUST COMMIT TO IT & CHANGE YOUR EATING HABITS & WORK OUT. I am living proof & there are so many others that IT REALLY WORKS LONG TERM. 
Thanks you for this Erica!

Hi Erika,
I’ve read your article and several of the comments; I’m just confused and curious about one thing. What I can’t understand is how on earth Ardyss is allowed to get away with making false claims about their product. I’m assuming (perhaps incorrectly) that the company is based in the USA? -Is there no governing body in the United States that regulates advertising? In the UK we have the “Advertising Standards Authority” which regulates advertising across ALL media. In some instances, it’s taken merely a handful of people complaining about misleading advertising for the marketing of a product to be pulled. In the case of Ardyss it appears that the company is propagating bare-faced lies. How are they permitted to get away with it? I’m just curious… sorry if a similar question has already been asked and answered above; I’d love to read all the comments but there are so many! You’ve written an informative article which I enjoyed reading -plus your commentators are very entertaining, thanks so much for posting!

You could say it’s because enough people haven’t been reporting it to the appropriate regulatory commissions, but then again if Ardyss as a corporation isn’t the one encouraging people to promote the product in this way and it’s instead merely local salespeople or managers, then it’s a matter of how multi-level marketing schemes — er, businesses allow individual salespeople to promote their product… and I think regulating that becomes a bit more complex. Are there laws requiring MLMs to control how their products are marketed? Are there ways that we can penalize MLMs who don’t prevent their entry-level marketers from using misleading, predatory marketing? That’s all out of my purview, LOL. I wouldn’t know for sure.

Hi Erika,
I have always struggled with weight issues. I am 270 and I need help becoming a healthier me. Do you have a website or even willing to work with someone that is not in your state. I am ready and committed I just need a positive encouragement to aid in my process.

Thanks, I was getting tired of seeing someone post on facebook for the past two years about how Ardyss changed her life and how much money she is making and how slim she is. I wanted to see other reviews on this product. You have opened my eyes to the fact that something like this can indeed be hazardous to my health.

It is more fun to exercise and eat healthy anyway! I wore a girdle a couple of times years ago and I hated it! It made me feel unreal and….squished. Seeing the positive results of hard work can make you feel so much better about yourself and life in general.

I love this post. Thank you for helping us realize what has always been true….the only way to change is to do something different. I spent my last dollers on a body magic so i would look beautiful in a dress for my sisters wedding. I had such high hope it would make me look better and feel better and lose weight more easily. All I did was sweat ,itch and hurt the entire time. Did I look better…..yes, but at what cost. I couldnt wear that thing daily….I barely made it through 5 hours and then finally took it off in the bathroom at the reception hall. Its a girdle…..its temporary…..there is no magic to weight loss or reshaping your body or lifestyle. The magic is hard work, dedication, going hard when you have already given your all and realizing the inside matters so much more then the outside. Its easy to fall into a magical idea…….but its just not true. I sold mine at a yardsale as a girdle i have since lozt 243 lbs through regular old diet and exercize. My magic was hearing my 6 year old say “mom when I grow up I wanna be healthy and fun like you” . I taught her truth ….I taught her reality…I taught her about making good choices….I taught her about self love……….with the body magic i would have only taught her how to look a little better in a dress

most of your comments seemsto be people on your side.do you delete anyone who has the garment and actually had good things to say about it? I was thinking of buying onebecause I want to better in my clothesif I happen to lose weight, great. I have bought spanxs and something that does a little more

Back in the 60’s, 70’s 80’s….when we had babies our grandmother’s, Mother’s would wrap our waist up tight for us to loose the weight after child birth….I had 3 kids and stomach was flat afterwards….I have my daughter do the same and the same happens. I may not be a scientist but I know that helped us back in the day…..ive also exercised in waist clinchers which has helped me…. never tried body magic but I know people who have….not sure how they like it not the topic of conversation in my circle….

So, this is actually true, but you’re talking about a different phenomenon – not merely body fat. You’re talking about something called “diastasis recti,” which is another way to say “the baby stretched out the abdominal muscles and connective tissue that binds them,” and wearing tight fabric around the abdomen is a way to deal with that directly after giving birth. That’s something entirely different, and I address part of that here. Diastasis recti happens to many different women to varying degrees, and isn’t much about fat loss (though that will naturally happen post-pregnancy, anyway) but people mistake it for so because of the visible decreasing of the belly.